The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued a warning to UK drivers about scams, urging motorists to "think before you click" and not to share their personal information with anyone. The alert, shared on its social media channels, says: "Scammers are targeting drivers with fake texts and emails pretending to be DVLA."
Advice to protect yourself
The DVLA advises drivers to always use the official GOV.UK website for information. It says: "With fraudsters increasingly using more sophisticated ways to trick their victims, it has never been more important for motorists to be vigilant and aware of how to recognise fraudulent emails, texts, websites and calls."
The agency has listed several tips on how to avoid scams, including only using GOV.UK for official information, never sharing personal details online, and being wary of emails or texts asking to confirm details.
Key warnings for drivers
The DVLA warns that fraudsters often send emails or texts asking victims to confirm personal details, such as bank or payment information, and may even claim you are entitled to a hefty vehicle tax refund. The agency stresses it will never ask for bank account details or ask you to confirm payment details, and vehicle tax refunds are issued automatically – never via an email with a link.
Drivers are also warned about websites impersonating DVLA, which may appear legitimate and charge additional fees for services that are free or cheaper on GOV.UK, including driving licence applications, vehicle tax transactions and Clean Air Zone (CAZ) payments. If you receive a suspicious email or text, do not click on any links; instead, report it to the National Cyber Security Centre and delete it immediately.
